1 Peter 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; 2:12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
Fleshy lust, or sinful desires, refers to those impulses that stem from our fallen nature—desires that pull us away from God and towards sin. These include not only physical temptations but also pride, greed, envy, and all manner of selfish inclinations.
Peter the Apostle describes these desires as waging war against our souls. Sinful desires actively seek to undermine our spiritual health and our relationship with God. Every day, we are in a battle, confronted with choices that either draw us closer to holiness or lead us into sin.
Yielding to fleshy lust leads to spiritual decay. It distances us from God and disrupts the peace and joy that come from a life lived in obedience to Him. Sin creates a barrier, making it harder to hear God’s voice and to feel His presence. Moreover, it can lead to destructive behaviors that harm ourselves and others, damaging relationships and communities.
So, how do we abstain from these sinful desires? The first step is recognition. We must be vigilant, recognizing the areas where we are most vulnerable and acknowledging our need for God’s help. Scripture and prayer are our primary weapons in this battle. Regular immersion in God’s Word renews our minds, helping us discern right from wrong and strengthening our resolve to choose the path of righteousness.
Another way we can be free is the support of our Christian community. We are not alone in this fight. Fellow believers can offer encouragement, accountability, and prayer support. Sharing our struggles with trusted friends or mentors can provide us with the strength to resist temptation and grow in our faith.
we must always remember our identity as foreigners and exiles. Our ultimate goal is not to gratify the desires of the flesh but to live in a way that honors God and reflects His kingdom. By keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus and the eternal life He promises, we can find the motivation to persevere in holiness.
In conclusion, Peter’s plea in 1 Peter 2:11 is a call to spiritual vigilance and purity. Let us commit to abstaining from fleshy lusts, recognizing them as the enemy that wages war against our souls. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, the support of our Christian community, and the transformative power of God’s Word, we can overcome these sinful desires and live lives that glorify God. May we always remember our identity as God’s children, striving to reflect His holiness in all we do.
God bless you.
Prayer key:
1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name.
2. Lord, strengthen us in our battle against sinful desires in Jesus Christ name.
3. Lord, help us to live as faithful exiles in this world and fill us with your spirit that we may walk in purity that reflect your love and grace in this world in Jesus Christ name.
4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.
Brighter Life Ministry 